A superb Portuguese necklace with incredible cannetille gold work in 19.2 karats. The necklace has a luxurious design of heavy woven gold that glows from its high karat. It contains over 60 turquoise cabochons and has a flower-like box clasp that features a central garnet detail gemstone. The clasp is so ornate that it can be worn in the front or back. The necklace is made up of many flexible segments that create flowing movement in the otherwise heavy necklace. The segments look like French embroidery—where cannetille gets its name—and the detail and filigree gold work is of the highest quality.
Cannetille was extremely popular in the Victorian era, and is often thought to have originated in Portugal. The Portuguese were known for their excellent gold work and their ability to replicate ancient methods for creating wonderful jewelry pieces. This Etruscan Revival style beaded cannetille piece is of the highest quality and a beautiful representation of Portuguese jewelry.
The necklace is 19” long and 7/16” wide. It weighs 90 grams. The 60 turquoise cabochons measure 2.25 mm each; the garnet gemstone measures 3mm. The piece is marked with 800 (the Portuguese gold mark for 19.2 karats) and contains a hallmark that was used in Porto, Portugal from 1938 until 1984.
This luxurious piece has stunning presence on the neck and feels great to wear.
